Arsenal's Norwegian captain picked up an injury during September's FIFA Days and could miss the north London derby against Tottenham. Martin Odegaard lay on the pitch in serious pain before having to be helped off.
Odegaard scored for the Gunners in both of their Premier League games against Tottenham last season. His absence will have a major impact on Arsenal's attack. Another key player for Mikel Arteta, Declan Rice, will also be absent.
The English midfielder received a red card in Arsenal's draw with Brighton in the third round of the Premier League. This means that The Gunners will be without the services of 2 of their 3 key midfielders.
Besides Rice and Odegaard, Thomas Partey is the remaining player who played in Arsenal's midfield in all three opening Premier League matches. In the current context, Jorginho with his experience can be the card that Arteta trusts to replace Rice.
Kai Havertz or Leandro Trossard will be considered by the Spaniard when Odegaard is unable to play. Havertz has been in explosive form recently in the false nine role. However, for most of his career, the German has often operated as a creative midfielder and is capable of replacing Odegaard.
Meanwhile, Trossard's versatility is a big plus. The former Brighton man can play in a number of attacking roles, even as a 'number 10'. Arsenal's lack of squad depth has been a problem in recent years and looks set to return.
The injury problems that new signing Mikel Merino has had are untimely, and Arteta has also approved the sale of some reserve players this summer. The quality of the Gunners' first team is unquestionable, but at times they have looked tired.
Emile Smith Rowe joined Fulham just a few weeks ago, while Fabio Vieira returned to Porto on a season-long loan. Both players could play in the No.10 position if they were still at the Emirates.
Gabriel Jesus will be back at full fitness and could lead the line if Havertz drops into midfield. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are other players Arteta is counting on, while new signing Raheem Sterling could be on the bench.
